Periodontist Chanhassen, MN | Family Dentistry | Welcome Dr. Bretz

At Bluff Creek Dental we strive to provide our Chanhassen, MN patients with comprehensive dental care at our family dental office. In light of our commitment to our community, we would like to introduce the newest member of the Bluff Creek Dental team, Periodontist, Dr. Teri Bretz! 

Dr. Bretz graduated from Southern Illinois University - School of Dental Medicine, and the University of Minnesota where she graduated with a certificate in periodontology. Before joining the Bluff Creek Dental team in Chanhassen, MN she taught in the graduate department of periodontology at Saint Louis University and also practiced in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. 

What Does a Periodontist Treat?

Periodontology involves specializing in the structures surrounding your teeth, including your gums, bone, and the roots of your teeth. The most common issue periodontists treat is periodontal disease. Periodontal disease, more commonly known as gum disease, is an infection of the structures surrounding the teeth. It can begin with inflammation and possible bleeding of the gums, and if left untreated it can damage your gums and jawbone, requiring tooth extraction in some cases to resolve the issue. Periodontal disease affects more than just your teeth and the structures surrounding them, though. Studies have shown periodontal disease has been linked to other health problems like atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Other Periodontal Treatments and Procedures

Aside from treating gum disease, periodontists can also perform restorative procedures to help bring back your smile after it is damaged by periodontal disease. These restorative treatments include dental implants, bone grafting, gum grafting, tooth crown lengthening, and tooth extraction. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants are anchors for caps or crowns that look and feel like normal teeth. They are most commonly placed in the bone with a metal, screw-like implant. They can also be placed into the gums with a wire framework to anchor them in place. 

Bone Grafts

Depending on the severity of the affliction, you may need a bone graft before receiving a dental implant. Bone grafts are placed where a patient's natural jawbone has been deteriorated due to missing teeth or gum disease. When the graft is placed it stimulates new bone growth and will eventually be able to take a dental implant. 

Gingival Grafts

Gingival grafts, more commonly known as gum grafts, work in a similar way to bone grafts. A small portion of donor gum, usually from your palate, is grafted to the affected area. This donor gum can then be used to cover exposed roots, reduce bone loss, and protect your teeth and gums from further decay. 

Visit Chanhassen’s Newest Periodontist Today

Bluff Creek Dental is proud to offer all kinds of dental care and we are excited to have such a qualified periodontist like Dr. Bretz on our team! If you think you may be suffering from periodontal disease or are simply looking for a family dentist in Chanhassen, MN, contact Bluff Creek Dental. We are your local family dentist and hope to see you in our office soon!